Addison’s disease

Addison’s disease or primary hyperadrenalism is an endocrine disorder result consequently complete destruction of adrenal cortex and consequently reduced production of glucocorticoid , minerlcorticoid and sex-steroid.

Etiology

Autoimmune destruction of 80%

Tuberculosis

Surgical removal

Malignant infiltration

Drugs, amyloid and hemorrhage

Clinical features

Symptoms

Weakness

Anorexia

Weight loss

Impotence/amenorrhea

Fever

Depression

Signs

Postural hypotension

Loss of body hair

Investigations

Plasma ACTH level

Plasma cortical aldosterone level

Blood glucose

Short and long ACTH stimulation level

Treatment

Treat the underlying cause in adrenal cortex and use the following drug therapy